Participle phrases use past or irregular verb forms (typically ending in -ed or -en) to function as adjectives that modify nouns. This lesson shows how participle phrases add descriptive detail to direct objects, helping you specify which person, thing, or concept you're referring to.
Participle Phrases modifying the DIRECT OBJECT
The children found (a ball lost in the park) yesterday.
She ate (cake baked by her grandmother) after school.
They played (games made for young kids) at the party.
He read (a book written for beginners) last weekend.
The teacher showed (pictures taken on the trip) in class.
We watched (a movie filmed in our city) last night.
Participle Phrases modifying the DIRECT OBJECT
The mother gave the baby (a toy bought last week) in the morning.
She gave her friend (a letter written yesterday) after class.
They gave the dog (food cooked at home) every evening.
The coach gave the team (drinks prepared for the game) during the break.
He gave his sister (a drawing finished this morning) before dinner.
The parents gave the children (books chosen for their age) on their birthday.
Participle Phrases as Adjectives (Descriptive Examples)
Exhausted by the long hike, the hikers decided to camp by the river.
The treasure, hidden beneath the floorboards for decades, was finally discovered.
Painted a brilliant shade of blue, the old house looked brand new.
Chosen for his incredible speed, the young athlete joined the Olympic team.
The contract, written in messy cursive, was almost impossible to read.
Frozen by the sudden blast of arctic air, the lake turned into a sheet of glass.
Note: The following sentences are shorter (reduced) forms of sentences that originally used "who is/are", "that is/are", or "which is/are".
For Examples:
Children who are interested in music... → Children interested in music ...
Buildings that are designed with sustainable materials... → Buildings designed with sustainable materials ...
Toys which are made of wood... → Toys made of wood ...
Participles as Adjectives (Postnominal)
Children interested in music early develop strong intellectual skills.
Buildings designed with sustainable materials reduce energy costs significantly.
Students given clear instructions perform much better on the exam.
Vegetables cooked in the oven taste delicious.
Toys made of wood are safer for children.
Computers used for high-end gaming require powerful cooling systems.
Athletes chosen for the varsity team must attend practice daily.